What is the 3-Star Discount?
The 3-Star Discount is available to drivers who have not experienced any at-fault accidents or minor violations in the past three years, nor major violations in the past five years. Additionally, at least one driver in the household must have held a valid driver's license for at least three years, and all vehicles must have been insured in compliance with relevant state laws. This discount remains applicable as long as the driving record continues to meet these criteria.
How does one qualify for the 3-Star Discount?
To qualify for the 3-Star Discount, no at-fault accidents or minor violations should have occurred over the last three years, and no major violations should have occurred in the last five years. It's crucial that one driver in the household has maintained a valid driver's license for at least three years. Additionally, the household vehicles must not have been driven without proper liability insurance, as per state requirements.
What happens if a driver has a violation after qualifying for the discount?
If a driver who is eligible for the 3-Star Discount subsequently incurs a violation or at-fault accident, the discount will change. The household will then qualify for a smaller 2-Star Discount. Depending on the severity and nature of the incidents, additional surcharges may also be applied to the insurance premiums.
What is the difference between the 2-Star Discount and the 3-Star Discount?
The 2-Star Discount applies when drivers do not qualify for the 3-Star Discount, typically due to a recent at-fault accident or minor violation. The 2-Star Discount is associated with higher premiums—20% more for liability and comprehensive coverages when compared to the 3-Star Discount. Moreover, the 2-Star Discount indicates a less favorable driving history.
What are the surcharges related to driver records?
Driver record surcharges are additional costs added to premiums based on a driver's history of accidents and violations. Major violations and chargeable accidents may lead to significant increases in premiums. These surcharges can remain in effect for up to three years, depending on when the incidents occurred and their nature. The specific surcharge percentage varies with the severity and frequency of violations or accidents.
How long does the 3-Star Discount last?
The 3-Star Discount lasts as long as the qualifying drivers maintain a clean driving record, with no at-fault accidents or minor violations over the last three years and no major violations in the last five years. Should any qualifying conditions change, the discount may be reevaluated, potentially dropping to the 2-Star Discount level.
Can surcharges be removed after they have been applied?
Yes, surcharges can be removed if it is shown that the driver responsible for the incidents is no longer a member of the household or will not be operating the car going forward. In cases where the driver is insured under another State Farm policy, the incidents will be considered in that policy's rating, but they won't affect the current policy's rates.